Louth-based Garda pleads guilty over fatal hit-and-run

A Louth-based Garda prosecuted over a fatal hit and run collision in the early hours of St Patrick's Day two years ago, pleaded guilty when he appeared before Dundalk District Court.

Michael Ball of Drogheda Garda Station, who is suspended from duty and is aged in his 30s, admitted dangerous driving causing the death of Niall Mac Eneaney on the Rathmullen Road, Drogheda on March 17th 2024.

He further admitted as the driver of a LH registered vehicle involved in the occurrence of injury, failing to keep it at or near the scene, for a period that was reasonable in all the circumstances, whilst knowing that Mr Mac Eneaney was dead, or being reckless as to whether the injury resulted in his death, and that he did so with intent to escape civil or criminal liability.

State Solicitor for County Louth Fergus Mullen told Judge Nicola Andrews that the DPP had consented to the defendant going forward to Dundalk Circuit Court on signed pleas.

Judge Andrews remanded him on bail to the present sitting of the Circuit Court on Monday January 19th on his own bond of €100.

Legal aid for two counsel was granted following an application by Defence solicitor Philip Hannon.

Judge Andrews also acknowledged members of Mr Mac Eneaney's family, who Mr Mullen had indicated were present in court when the case was called.

The 42 year old was well known locally as a former Louth hurler and at the time of his death was the hurling team coach with Termonfeckin club St Fechin's.